The Benefits of Mint and How to Use It in the Kitchen

Mint contains menthol, which gives it a cooling taste and may soothe digestion. It is one of the most widely used fresh herbs in Turkish cooking, appearing in everything from savory dishes to tea. How Can Mint Affect Digestion? Mint may help relax the muscles around the stomach and ease bloating, which is why mint tea is often chosen after a heavy meal. Menthol is the main source of this soothing effect. People with reflux are advised to be cautious with mint, however, because it may make it easier for stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus for some people. Which Dishes Use Mint? Mint is used in many Turkish dishes, from yogurt sauces to stuffed vegetables and grape-leaf rolls. It adds freshness to yogurt appetizers such as cucumber-yogurt dip and seasoned yogurt dip, and brings depth alongside other spices in stuffed vegetables and grape-leaf rolls. Mint is also a classic pairing with lamb. It is often added to salads, especially those made with tomatoes and onions, where it adds freshness. A few mint leaves in fruit salad add a refreshing touch as well. What Is the Difference Between Fresh and Dried Mint? Fresh mint has a milder, more refreshing taste, while dried mint has a stronger, sharper aroma. If substituting dried mint for fresh in a recipe, use less. As a general guide, one 15 ml measure of fresh mint is approximately equal to one 4 ml measure of dried mint. Dried mint is more often used in soups and meat dishes, while fresh mint is preferred in salads, appetizers, and drinks because the two forms have different aroma intensities. How Do You Brew Mint Tea? Add fresh mint leaves to boiling water and steep for 5–7 minutes. Steeping longer can make the tea taste too sharp. Honey or lemon is often added to balance the mint's flavor. Consume mint tea in moderation during pregnancy. Pregnant or breastfeeding people are advised to limit the amount and consult a doctor if they have concerns. How Should You Store Mint? Fresh mint can stay fresh for a few days in the refrigerator with its stems in water or wrapped in a damp paper towel. Store dried mint in a sealed jar in a cool, dark place, where it can keep for months. You can also freeze mint leaves: wash and dry them, place them in ice cube trays with water or olive oil, and freeze them so fresh mint can be used out of season. This is especially convenient for soups and sauces. Mint's aroma may change slightly when the plant flowers, so leaves picked before flowering are preferred for the strongest flavor in tea or food. If you grow mint in a pot, keep it in its own container because its roots spread quickly and can take over space used by other garden plants. A regularly watered mint plant kept near the kitchen makes it easy to pick fresh leaves when needed.